Anything that's more effort than using tailscale isn't worth it to me. I just treat it like public Wi-Fi that no one but me uses.

My frustration is that it's difficult in the first place. I shouldn't need to call someone (and hope they both comprehend and help) just to configure a device inside my home. It's absurd, and everything that led us to this point deserves criticism.

Sorry for the late reply, just wanted to say I have felt your pain starting a long time ago, and I agree it's absurd. I don't even do this as a job. I'm just out there trying to make sure that my wife and I have functional internet at our house and her parents' house as a layman with a modicum of experience.